The use of more numerous antennas and higher-frequency spectrum by 5G networks has led to questions about the potential health risks that might be posed by this technology. A combination of inaccurate reporting and non-peer-reviewed research on the topic have raised concerns that such changes to Canada’s wireless infrastructure could be dangerous for the public.
In some ways, concerns about 5G are a continuation of previously-discredited fears about electromagnetic radiation, such as the cell phone scare that emerged in the 1990s. Unfortunately, misperceptions about radio energy from wireless networks still linger today that are holdovers from the 2G era, and that have caused unnecessary worries about next-generation 5G networks.
The Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association (CWTA) and the 5G Canada Council (5GCC) have produced the following 5G Fact Sheet as a guide to help clear up some common 5G safety misconceptions and myths, and a starting point for those seeking basic information on the topic in Canada.